Knoxville’s Living Windows celebration is later this week, taking place Thursday, November 18th from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. in downtown Knoxville. The town square, including many storefront windows, will be decorated for the theme of “A Storybook Christmas.”

The festivities will kick off with the annual tree lighting ceremony on the Marion County Courthouse lawn at 5:30 p.m., with an appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Following the tree lighting is the return of the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce’s “Snowball Drop.” Each ball dropped will have a number that corresponds to a local business providing deals. All snowballs will be dropped in downtown Knoxville and can be redeemable throughout the holiday shopping season, beginning on Small Business Saturday, November 27th, through Christmas Eve.

Many downtown businesses will be open late and offering special discounts and promotions. A wreath auction benefiting the Knoxville Federated Garden Club will be held in the Marion County Courthouse from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. Horse drawn carriage rides can be enjoyed throughout the evening.